When you think of India, romantic Rajasthan is what really springs to mind. It's a place of majestic palaces, vibrant saris, and eye-catching turbans, set against the backdrop of historic forts and sleepy villages. This is the India that dazzles and defies expectations, often at the same time. We’ve handpicked some of the best holidays in Rajasthan – weaving in the Golden Triangle – to help you experience the real, unfiltered soul of India.
TOP RAJASTHAN HOLIDAY IDEAS
Discover A Different Side of Rajasthan
Experience Rajasthan beyond the well-trodden paths, from Delhi’s highlights to the serene countryside of Bundi, Shahpura, and Deogarh, exploring hidden gems and wildlife sanctuaries.
Luxury & Adventure in Rajasthan
Uncover the majestic forts of Jodhpur and Udaipur, traverse the Thar Desert, and search for wildlife in remote Jawai, all while soaking in Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Regal Residences of Rajasthan
Step off the usual route and into Rajasthan’s heart, staying in heritage properties and exploring the splendour of the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, and Udaipur.
A Note on Hygiene & Safety for Holidays in Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s blend of romance, chivalry, and adventure is undeniably appealing, but we understand that concerns about hygiene and safety can be a bit off-putting. Rest assured, our firsthand experience and local team ensure you’ll feel safe and well looked after, with plenty of tips and tricks to keep you healthy along the way. It’s actually easier than you’d think to enjoy a worry-free, luxurious holiday here, with the right guidance and care.
Remote Rajasthan, Tigers and the Taj Mahal
Classic ETG Rajasthan with the Taj
Princely Rajasthan
Best Places to Visit on a Holiday in Rajasthan, India
Tempted to experience Rajasthan's mighty cities, verdant jungles teeming with flora and fauna, ancient ruins, and luxurious hotels – from grand palaces to chic boutique hotels, which were once the fortified homes of Thakurs (landed gentry) – but wondering where to begin?
Well, the Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur – is "golden" for good reason (although Jaipur and Agra are technically just outside the state of Rajasthan). Explore our holidays in this area here.
Delightful, disorderly Delhi is an absolute must. Don't worry, we'll ease you in gently and you'll navigate the contrasts of the city with the help of your local guide. Our rickshaw tour here is an adventure in itself, and the bustling bazaars brimming with sounds, smells, and spices are great fun.
Jodhpur and Udaipur are both wonderful. Stroll through the Blue City of Jodhpur, meander around its markets and head to Mehrangarh Fort to soak up staggering, sweeping views, before going to Udaipur to unwind by lovely Lake Pichola.
But don't stop there – the hidden magic of Rajasthan lies beyond its famous cities...
Veer off the beaten track with us to immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural Rajasthani life, where vibrant saris worn by village women add splashes of colour to dusty landscapes. A few of our favourite hidden gems are Bundi, Chhatra Sagar, Ramathra Fort, Shahpura, and Bhainsrorgarh.
Discover Rajasthan’s secret side, where you’ll interact with friendly desert tribes and witness a way of life that defies modern influence.
Expect warm welcomes wherever you go – whether you’re browsing lively markets, enjoying local fairs and festivals, or even stumbling upon an elaborate wedding. Who knows, you might even find yourself on a Bollywood film set!
And then there's the wonderful wildlife. Ranthambore is known for tiger safaris but there are plenty of other lesser-seen National Parks primed for wildlife spotting, too. If you're a keen birder, Keoladeo Ghana National Park near Bharatpur will be paradise for you. You’ll find leopard safaris at Bhenswara and Jawai, camel riding safaris in the Thar Desert, as well as horse riding safaris (we never encourage elephant riding). You can also go on an off-road Jeep safari in Jodhpur.
Not sure what you’re looking for?
Let us inspire you
~
Every ETG journey is unique. Tell us your loves, your hates, your holiday ambitions, your hopes and fears, and we’ll share a suitcase so full of inspired holiday ideas you’ll need to sit on it to shut it tight.
Your next adventure starts with a conversation...
Get in TouchCall us 020 7924 7133
Call us 1-888-577-8452
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN RAJASTHAN, INDIA
It goes without saying that Rajasthan is renowned for its fairtytale-esque forts and haveli hotels. They truly live up to the hype and we've cherrypicked the best of the bunch. We’ve also uncovered some incredible eco-lodges and heritage homestays that give you deep insights into the region. Here are a few of the finest:
RAAS Devigarh
Shahpura Bagh
Aman-I-Khas
Best times to go on holiday in Rajasthan, India
Generally speaking, the ideal time to explore Rajasthan is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant. For fewer crowds and better rates, consider visiting during the 'off-season' in late summer. Christmas is a popular time to go for a memorable festive period, while Easter offers great value and excellent chances to spot wildlife.
However, it’s best to avoid Delhi and Agra in November due to heavy smog, and early January can be too cold and misty in these areas. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s also wise to steer clear of central India between mid-December to mid-January, as it gets very chilly and again, mist can affect animal sightings.
For a deeper dive, browse our seasonal guide to India.
Not sure what you’re looking for?
Let us inspire you
~
Every ETG journey is unique. Tell us your loves, your hates, your holiday ambitions, your hopes and fears, and we’ll share a suitcase so full of inspired holiday ideas you’ll need to sit on it to shut it tight.
Your next adventure starts with a conversation...
Get in TouchCall us 020 7924 7133
Call us 1-888-577-8452
Experiences
Immersive ETG holiday experiences let you genuinely connect to the people and places you visit. You’ll learn as much about yourself as you do about them.
element
Sometimes you can know too much. Our holidays are specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, unexpected discoveries.
done right
Our B Corporation certification, commitment to sustainability and 'give back' philosophy mean you can always be sure that every step you take is light. Ethical, mindful, guilt-free travel - travel done right
luxury
A thread of luxury that ties everything together. From beautiful boutique hotels to top-quality transport, to exceptional levels of service - whatever luxury looks like to you… it’s yours